Art Form: Face Masks for the Whole Family!
Our newest collection of handmade face masks just arrived from two different companies working in Guatemala and Thailand. They are keeping artisans doing dignified, fairly paid work during this time of uncertainty
. From Thailand we received cotton and linen masks in bright colors and prints, each with a little filter pocket in the back as well as a shipment of the 5-layer filters that make the masks even more effective.
In Guatemala, the artisans are also amazing and inspiring! They have quickly adapted to changing
times and markets. They combine
contemporary designs with ancient traditions from their Mayan culture.
Made from handwoven Guatemalan fabrics or embroidered on bright cottons, these masks are also made with a filter pocket or with microfiber lining, and are washable and
re-useable.
Company: Lucia's Imports
Guatemala and Lexington, Kentucky
In 1986, the Guatemalan co-operative Ruth & Nohemi was founded to help and train displaced people struggling to survive the 35 year Guatemalan Civil war. Workshops were organized to teach and sustain sewing skills and traditional backstrap loom weaving. In time, a long term exporting relationship began with Lucia's Imports.
Shortly after the pandemic hit Guatemala, the Ruth & Nohemi coop, having finished their orders with Lucia's Imports, decided to try making protective masks.
It was beautiful and amazing how they adapted their skills, designs and talents so quickly to create a product that is in worldwide demand. Both the men in the sewing workshops and the women who do embroidery contribute to the production of the masks.
After Lucia's Imports placed and completed their first order, one of their workers, Diego said, "Gracias, you have provided food on the table for many families."
Lucia's Imports is a Member of the Fair Trade Federation and Green America Gold Certification
Company: Lumily
Guatemala, Thailand and San Diego, California
The name 'Lumily' comes from a deeply held belief that the world represents one family. "Lum" means
world in Tzotzil, a dialect of Mayan language and "ily" comes from
family. When we support others, regardless of who they are and where they live, we support our global family. "One world... one family... Lumily."
Founded by Giovanna Mantilla, Lumily is an ethical brand that focuses on creating social change one fair trade item at a time. They believe in the importance of ethical practices in all phases of their business, from sourcing to production to sales.
Lumily is
a woman-owned business that partners with over 75 female artisans in Guatemala, Mexico, and Thailand who create
handmade items that represent hope, sustainability and relationships.
Lumily provides the funds for 14 children in Guatemala to go to school. They have an emergency fund set aside for all artisans and they host fundraisers to provide extra support for them and their families.
For every mask purchased, the Lumily company is donating one mask to underserved and vulnerable communities. While masks are being made in both Guatemala and Thailand, our shipment from Lumily features only masks from Thailand.
Stay safe and support artisans around the world
with your purchase!
(Jan's brother and family enjoying their new Guatemalan masks.)
